By Ryan Anderson, USFL Writer for USA Today
As the 1984 USFL Championship Game looms large on the horizon, there’s one team that stands out as the undeniable favorite to claim the coveted title: the Houston Gamblers. With a staggering 14-4 record and a season-long display of offensive prowess that has left opponents reeling, the Gamblers have firmly established themselves as the team to beat in the USFL. Now, as they prepare to face off against the New Jersey Generals in the championship showdown, there are compelling reasons to believe that Houston has what it takes to emerge victorious and etch their name into the annals of football history.
At the heart of the Gamblers’ dominance is their electrifying Kelly Gun offense, a high-octane aerial attack led by none other than quarterback Jim Kelly. With a league-leading 64.9% completion rate and an eye-popping 55 touchdowns against only 18 interceptions, Kelly has been the driving force behind Houston’s offensive juggernaut, orchestrating scoring drives with precision and poise. But Kelly is not alone in his quest for championship glory; he’s surrounded by a talented supporting cast of playmakers who have thrived under his leadership. Running back Fowler has bulldozed his way to 1443 rushing yards and 16 touchdowns, while his backfield mate Harrell has added another 19 touchdowns to the Gamblers’ explosive offensive output. And in the passing game, four dynamic receivers—Johnson, Sanders, Moser, and McNiel—have each surpassed the 50-reception mark, collectively amassing over 5000 yards and 50 touchdowns through the air. Together, they form a formidable offensive arsenal that has left opposing defenses scrambling to keep up.
But the Gamblers’ road to championship contention has been about more than just offensive firepower; it’s been a story of complete domination in their inaugural season in the USFL. From their opening game to their last, Houston has left a trail of defeated opponents in their wake, showcasing their ability to outscore and outmaneuver any team that dares to stand in their way. Along the way, they’ve notched impressive victories over perennial powerhouses like the defending champions Chicago Blitz and fellow upstarts, the Los Angeles Express, proving themselves to be a force to be reckoned with in the league.
As they prepare to square off against the New Jersey Generals in the championship showdown, the Houston Gamblers are brimming with confidence and determination. With their dynamic Kelly Gun offense firing on all cylinders, a defense that bends but doesn’t break, and a roster full of hungry playmakers eager to make their mark on the biggest stage, the Gamblers have all the tools they need to seize victory and cement their status as champions of the USFL. Now, as they stand on the brink of greatness, the stage is set for Houston to unleash their unstoppable force and claim their rightful place atop the football world.